US and Israel Leadership Discuss Gaza War in First Call Since February

US President Joe Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, discussing the ongoing conflict in Gaza during their first known communication since February 15. The White House confirmed that the leaders discussed “the latest developments … including the situation in Rafah and efforts to surge humanitarian assistance to Gaza.” A detailed readout of the call is expected to be released soon.

This conversation was the 20th between the two leaders since the onset of the Gaza war on October 7. The dialogue comes following remarks made last week by Sen. Chuck Schumer, the most senior Congressional Democrat, who called for early elections in Israel. Schumer criticized Netanyahu as an “obstacle to peace,” grouping him with Hamas, the Israeli far-right, and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. Biden has acknowledged the frustration felt by many Americans, though he emphasized that the decision for elections lies with the Israeli populace.

This also comes as the US actively pursues a temporary cease-fire through a hostage deal, aiming for a longer-lasting truce and a comprehensive regional initiative. This plan includes reconstructing Gaza with the support of Arab allies, reforming the Palestinian Authority, normalizing ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel, and establishing a roadmap towards a Palestinian state. However, despite the US’s assertions of Israeli cooperation with the hostage deal, Netanyahu’s stance suggests resistance to any agreement that might lead to broader regional realignment, given his coalition’s opposition to a two-state solution.